Several studies have shown the virtues of “green” and “blue” spaces. Recently, Polish researchers have been interested in the benefits of walks in places covered with snow.
- Children who regularly walk near a stream are more likely to enjoy better mental health as adults.
- Living next to a green space reduces the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.
Exposure to snowy landscapes is associated with a more positive body image. This was revealed by scientists from the Medical University of Silesia (Poland). To reach this conclusion, they carried out work published in the journal International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. “We examine the impact of a walk in a snowy forest on body appreciation, as well as the dispositional and environmental determinants of improved body image,” they wrote.
Walking in a snow-covered forest allows you to better appreciate your body
As part of this study, the researchers recruited 87 Polish women, with an average age of 24 years. Before and after walking through a snowy forest for about 40 minutes, participants completed a body appreciation questionnaire. The latter also rated their connection to nature and their self-compassion.
According to the authors, walking in “white” spaces, namely snow-covered landscapes, is as beneficial as walking in “green” or “blue” spaces. According to the results, spending time in a snow-covered environment increases body appreciation. In addition, people who scored high on self-compassion had greater improvement in body appreciation.
“White spaces”: they “help to limit negative thoughts related to appearance”
“Natural environments help limit negative thoughts related to appearance and shift attention from an aesthetic view of the body to a greater appreciation of its functionality. A positive body image is important in itself, but has other beneficial effects, including improved psychological well-being.(…) Our results show the importance of ensuring that everyone can access these natural environments, which can be a way to promote a more positive body image, and point out that the benefits of being in nature, whatever the weather, are considerable”, said Viren Swami, author of the study, in a statement.
